Sight · Notting Hill
The Ginstitute
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The Ginstitute is a unique attraction in London's trendy Notting Hill neighborhood, offering visitors the chance to create their own personalized gin. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian shop on Portobello Road, the experience begins with a tutored tasting of classic gin styles, followed by a hands-on distillation session using a miniature copper still. You'll learn about the history of gin, the role of botanicals, and the distillation process. At the end, you bottle your own custom gin to take home, complete with a personalized label. The venue also features a cocktail bar and a shop selling premium gins. It's a perfect activity for gin enthusiasts or anyone looking for a memorable, interactive experience in London.
Don't miss
- Create your own bespoke gin from scratch
- Taste a range of classic and contemporary gins
- Learn about the history of gin in London
- Take home a 70cl bottle of your own gin
- Visit the attached Portobello Star bar for cocktails
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit The Ginstitute
You can visit on your own (Book online in advance; sessions sell out quickly. Prices include all materials and your bottle of gin). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inBombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Tour and Cocktail4.6★ · 729 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →
Most bookedLondon Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs5★ · 11,326 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →
Top ratedThe Great British Pub Walking Tour: London5★ · 203 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- You must be 18 or over to participate (ID required).
- Book at least a week in advance, especially on weekends.
- Sessions are small (up to 8 people) for a personal experience.
- Your bottled gin makes a great souvenir or gift.
A bit of history
The Ginstitute was founded in 2014 by gin experts who wanted to revive London's gin heritage. The building itself dates back to the 19th century and was once a pharmacy, fitting for a place focused on botanicals.
Common questions
Can I choose my own botanicals?
Yes, you select from over 40 botanicals to create your unique recipe.
Do I need any prior knowledge about gin?
No, the experience is designed for all levels, from beginners to experts.
Can I bring my own bottle?
No, a bottle is provided as part of the experience.
Is there a bar to visit without doing the experience?
Yes, the Portobello Star bar is open to the public and serves cocktails.
How long does the gin need to age?
It's ready to drink immediately, but flavors may meld over a few weeks.
Can I buy extra bottles of my gin?
Yes, you can order additional bottles of your recipe to be shipped later.
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